Art Deco, a design movement that dominated the 1920s and 1930s, has left a lasting impression on art, architecture, and design. With its bold geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and ornate detailing, Art Deco embodies the spirit of progress and innovation that characterized the era. As educators, it’s essential to teach students about this influential style to help them appreciate its cultural significance and lasting impact on design.
Introducing Art Deco to Students
Provide historical context: Begin by discussing the origins of Art Deco and how it evolved during its two-decade reign. Explain that it started in France but spread quickly across Europe and America. Highlight major events that influenced the style, such as the 1925 Paris Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, where Art Deco was formally introduced to the world.
Showcase iconic examples: Introduce students to notable works of Art Deco architecture and design, including landmarks such as New York’s Chrysler Building and London’s Daily Express Building. Discuss significant artists and designers who were pioneers of the style like Erté, Rene Lalique, and Tamara de Lempicka.
Explore Art Deco themes: Explain that Art Deco was inspired by various artistic movements like Cubism, Futurism, and Constructivism. Discuss how these influences manifested in key elements of the style, such as geometric patterns, symmetry, and stepped forms.
Teach through hands-on activities: Provide students with opportunities to explore Art Deco designs themselves through creative projects like designing posters or constructing models of buildings in the style. Encourage them to incorporate elements like streamlined shapes or bold typography into their designs.
Compare with other styles: Help students understand the broader context of artistic styles by comparing Art Deco to others like Art Nouveau, which preceded it, and to Modernism, which came after. Highlight the differences and similarities between these movements to deepen their understanding of how styles evolve and interact.
Incorporating Art Deco Across the Curriculum
Art Deco offers various opportunities for cross-disciplinary learning:
Literature and Film: Introduce students to works from the era that highlight the aesthetics, values, or themes associated with Art Deco. Examples include F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby and the film Metropolis by Fritz Lang.
History: Encourage students to research important historical events during the Art Deco period, like Prohibition in America or the construction of iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building.
Mathematics: Teach geometric concepts through Art Deco patterns and motifs. Challenge students to identify shapes, lines, and angles in an Art Deco piece or to create tessellations inspired by the style.
Technology: Discuss technological advancements that influenced Art Deco designs, such as automobiles, air travel, and electricity. Explore how these innovations shaped the movement’s futuristic look.
